Sources say one of the groups involved was with the MS-13 gang, while the other was with the 18th Street gang.

Romero was arraigned on felony assault charges and remanded without bail. He said nothing to reporters as he was escorted out of the courthouse, where he is expected to return on June 8.

According to court documents, Romero told police that he attacked the teens in the park but not with a machete. The documents quote Romero as saying in part, "The branch I used was dry and broke. When I hit the guy...I just hit him with my hands. I didn't use a knife."

Police say they are seeking two other alleged MS-13 gang members in the attack.